# California Sun Power Solar Tracker & Thin-Film Combo Optimizes All Weather Solar Energy Yields By Katie Cordrey | Published 2009-04-08 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/california-sun-power-solar-tracker-thin-film-combo-optimizes-solar-energy References: [conergy.us](http://www.conergy.us/DesktopDefault.aspx/tabid-267/236_read-10016/) In what is thought to be the world's first single-axis solar tracking system featuring thin-film photovoltaic cells, the [Robert O. Schulz Solar Farm](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-lookout-tower) will provide a unique cost-benefit analysis comparing two photovoltaic technologies. Crystalline panels and thin-film solar panels will be measured to see how they perform under a range of climatic conditions. The two distinct solar energy solutions are part the new project between Denver-based Conergy Americas and officials at [California's](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/led-lighting-systems) [South San Joaquin Irrigation District](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yonhap) (SSJID.) **Implications** - The system, which debuted in late march, will save nearly half a million dollars for the irrigation district in utility costs, and will in fact make millions of dollars for the district in state cash incentives. Amidst the stat-wide water crisis, the project, which is in its second phase, will stabilize consumer costs. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.4/10 - Popularity: 35% | Activity: 89% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Single-axis Solar Tracking System:** Opportunity for developing advanced solar tracking systems that optimize energy yields. - **Thin-film Photovoltaic Technology:** Potential for disruptive innovation in the thin-film solar panel industry by comparing its performance with crystalline panels under different weather conditions. - **Cost-benefit Analysis of Photovoltaic Technologies:** Opportunity to analyze the economic viability of different solar energy solutions to determine the most cost-effective option. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Solar Energy:** Potential for disruptive innovation in the solar energy industry through the development of more efficient and cost-effective solar tracking systems. - **Renewable Energy:** Opportunity for the renewable energy industry to explore the potential of thin-film photovoltaic technology as a viable alternative to traditional crystalline panels. - **Water Conservation:** Potential for the water conservation industry to utilize solar energy solutions as a means to stabilize consumer costs and save utility expenses amidst water crises. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Consolidated Photovoltaic Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/photovoltaic-systems.md) - [Flexible Solar Film Energy](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/heliafilm.md) - [Solar-Powered Vineyard Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vineyard-building.md) - [Off-Grid Solar Energy Units](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/portable-solar-tracker.md) - [Ultra-Thin Solar Panel Coatings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/solar-panel-2.md) - [Challenging Photovoltaic System Deployments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/photovoltaic-system1.md) - [Solar Land Ceilings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rajasthan-updates.md) - [Exceptionally Efficient Solar Cells](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/efficient-solar-cell.md) - [3D Solar Panel Modules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tipa.md)